UNI-SET is a partnership action led by EUA-EPUE and EIT KIC InnoEnergy and involving other relevant existing networks that will seek to mobilise the university sector to realise its full potential through pooling the richness and diversity of its expertise in research and education and directing its efforts towards addressing common goals. The overall strategy of the UNI-SET is to achieve an “open and neutral platform” to enhance the visibility of, and access to, the substantial capacities of Europe’s universities in research, innovation and education and training in the energy field in order to maximise their contribution to the SET-PLAN.The support action is organised in two main phases of implementation. Firstly, a mapping exercise which will involve the design of questionnaires, data collection and its analysis and development work on an internet-based information system allowing future self up-dating by universities. Secondly, the selection and launching of cluster activities aimed at achieving critical masses of experience and knowledge exchange in areas of core competencies in research, education and training in SET-PLAN topics and related areas.Clustering activities identified through the mapping will aim to reduce fragmentation of research and training capacities. Emphasis will be placed on profiling Masters and Doctoral candidates for greater opportunities for their future career development. UNI-SET will offer timely strategic support on a European level to the review of university competencies as many universities are now creating energy-focussed research and training centres drawing expertise from across existing faculties and involving partnerships with industry and other external actors.Horizontal activities to facilitate coordination and information flow among universities and other stakeholders in the SET-PLAN, and to mobilise university expert input to relevant EC initiatives and consultations on energy-related matters will be organised.